What Is an Intellectual Disability?
An intellectual disability is a mental impairment that results in below-average intelligence and cognitive functioning. Intellectual disabilities are lifelong conditions that usually start at birth. Often people with these impairments need assistance and supportive care throughout their lives.
These disorders fall on a spectrum, meaning they can range from highly debilitating to being hardly noticeable. For example, some people may require help completing simple daily tasks, such as brushing their teeth and getting dressed. Others may need carefully structured routines, mobility assistance, and specialized medical care.
Intellectual disabilities can be caused by birth-related injuries and complications, issues during pregnancy, genetics, etc.
Common Symptoms of Intellectual Disabilities
Some symptoms and limitations commonly experienced by people with intellectual disabilities include:
- Verbal, performance, or full-scale IQ test scores below 70
- Speech impairments
- Trouble concentrating
- Dependence on others for basic needs/tasks
- Inability to follow instructions
- Trouble learning or understanding new information
- Memory issues
- Difficulty problem solving
Many people with disabilities file for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) to obtain crucial benefits. Qualifying disabilities include physical and mental impairments. However, applying for financial support with an intellectual disability usually requires filing for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) rather than SSDI.
Does Intellectual Disability Qualify for SSI & SSDI?
If a person has an intellectual disability and is unable to work, they can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Intellectual disorders can cause different symptoms that affect the whole body as well as the mind. Adults and children with intellectual disabilities exhibit varying degrees of learning capability. Typically, it takes them longer to pick up new skills and perform new tasks.
Due to the limitations people with intellectual disabilities face, the Social Security Administration (SSA) considers these conditions to be disabling. However, a claimant must meet the SSA’s qualifying criteria before receiving benefits.
Filing With an Intellectual Disability for SSI or SSDI
Filing for SSDI or SSI can be a complicated process, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the SSA’s guidelines. When applying for benefits with an intellectual disability, a claimant must file under the associated Blue Book listing. This is section 12.05 in the Blue Book. They must meet the criteria under this listing to qualify for benefits.
They must also provide substantial evidence to support their claim. For one, they must have a diagnosis from a medical professional. Additionally, they must have evidence that shows their limited intellectual and adaptive functioning abilities. This can include low IQ scores that meet the criteria in section 12.05, Social Security Disability mental status examination results, and other evidence that supports their claim.
The main goal for someone filing for SSI or SSDI with an intellectual disability is to prove to the SSA that they’re unable to take part in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). It’s important to show:
- Their work-related limitations
- Any difficulties they have completing daily tasks
- Where they need assistance with activities of daily living
- Evidence of trouble interacting with others
- Any difficulties they have adapting or managing themselves
- Issues remembering or applying information, concentrating, and persisting or maintaining pace when it comes to work activities
What If My Disorder Doesn’t Meet a Blue Book Listing?
Applying for SSDI or SSI involves filing a claim with the SSA under a specific disorder category. However, many people find they don’t meet the exact Blue Book definition of “disabled” for their medical condition.
If you don’t meet a listing but still suffer from one or multiple impairments that limit your daily functioning, you can:
- Apply for disability with the claim that your condition equals a listing in severity, OR
- Apply for a Medical-Vocational Allowance
What Are the Differences Between SSDI & SSI?
The main differences between SSDI and SSI are who benefits and who is eligible.
SSDI helps disabled workers who are unable to perform SGA and cannot support themselves financially. Qualifying individuals are those who have paid into the Social Security system throughout their lives by working.
SSI is different from SSDI in that it is for those with little income and few resources who have limited or no work history. SSI recipients do not qualify for SSDI.
SSI is for disabled, blind, and elderly individuals 65 or older, and children. Children with intellectual disabilities often qualify for SSI. Many of these children continue receiving SSI after they turn 18 because they were never able to work.
Intellectual Disorders vs. Mental Illness for Social Security Disability
Mental illness and intellectual disabilities are different conditions. Intellectual disabilities typically develop before age 18 and involve limitations in both intellectual and adaptive functioning. These conditions are generally lifelong with relatively stable symptoms.
In contrast, mental illness can develop at any age and may get better or worse over time. It can also improve with treatment like therapy or medication.
Many people ask “Can you get SSI for mental illness?” The answer is yes— both SSI and SSDI for mental health conditions are available when a condition stops someone from working. Different mental disorders fall under section 12.00 in the Blue Book.
This section contains intellectual disorders and other qualifying conditions, such as:
- Affective Disorders (like depression and bipolar disorder)
- Anxiety
- Schizophrenia
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Eating Disorders
- Autism
Contact Ortega Disability Group
If you’re struggling to file for SSI or SSDI under intellectual disability, contact Ortega Disability Group today. Schedule a free consultation and allow our experience and knowledge of the Social Security system to work for you.